Heather Thom Pinelands

Heather Thom – Registered Counsellor, Cape Town

About Me

I graduated from Stellenbosch University in 1992 with a four-year bachelor’s degree in Primary Education, specialising in Art. During my teaching years, I taught all subjects, including Art, to students from Grade 4 to 7. My experience also includes teaching Art to special needs classes and facilitating adult drawing and ceramics classes.

When I started my family, I took a break from teaching and pursued an honours degree in Psychology. I then continued full-time studies for two years at Cornerstone Institute, where I graduated with a B.Psych (Equivalent). This qualification enabled me to register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and open my practice as a professional registered counsellor. My passion lies in providing guidance and support to individuals and families, helping them navigate challenges and build healthier relationships.

I am currently pursuing a master’s degree in Infant Mental Health at Stellenbosch University to further my expertise in early childhood development and parent-child relationships.

Services Offered

I offer counselling services in the following areas:

• Maternal Mental Health: Supporting expectant and new parents in managing the emotional challenges of pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenting.
• Children and Adolescents: Assisting young people who are struggling at school, dealing with anxiety, or facing personal difficulties.
• Parental Support: Providing guidance to parents of children with learning difficulties and helping them develop strategies to foster a supportive home environment.

Qualifications

• BA Primary Education (Art) – Stellenbosch University
• Honours in Psychology
• B.Psych (Equivalent) – Cornerstone Institute
• HPCSA Registered

Therapeutic Approaches

My counselling approach integrates various evidence-based techniques to ensure holistic and effective support for my clients.

Gestalt Therapy

Gestalt therapy focuses on the present moment, encouraging clients to explore how their past influences their current feelings and behaviours. This approach is particularly effective for addressing self-esteem concerns, anxiety, depression, and relationship struggles. It is often combined with other therapeutic techniques, such as play, art, drama, and bodywork.

Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT)

SFT is a goal-oriented approach that helps clients build solutions based on their future hopes rather than focusing on past problems. It is particularly effective for addressing child behavioural issues and relationship difficulties and can be integrated with other therapeutic methods.

Infant Mental Health

Research indicates that a parent’s past trauma and negative childhood experiences can impact their own parenting experience. This can lead to anxiety and distress for both parents and babies. Infant mental health interventions focus on strengthening parent-child relationships during the crucial first 1,000 days (from conception to about two years old). Early intervention can positively influence a child’s emotional and psychological development.

Additional Information

• Sessions are confidential and tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
• I work collaboratively with parents, caregivers, and professionals to ensure a supportive and holistic approach to well-being.
• My practice is based in Cape Town, offering in-person and online consultations.

If you are seeking guidance for yourself, your child, or your family, I am here to help. Contact me to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards emotional well-being and healing.